GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The Goldsboro Wayne Branch NAACP has announced the recipients of its 2026 Freedom Fund Awards, honoring local individuals, businesses and young people for their leadership, service, achievement and commitment to the community.
The award recipients will be formally recognized during the 2026 Freedom Fund Gala on Sept. 12.
“Our Freedom Fund Awards give us an opportunity to recognize people in our community who are doing the work, serving others, leading, creating opportunities, and making a difference,” Goldsboro Wayne Branch NAACP President John Barnes said. “We are proud to honor this outstanding group of recipients and look forward to celebrating them at this year’s Freedom Fund Gala.”
2026 Freedom Fund Award Recipients
The President Award will be presented to Francine Smith, while Councilman Roderick C. White will receive the Civic Engagement Award.
Jeffrey Leon Burden has been selected for the Community Service Award.
Two community leaders — Commissioner Bevan Foster and Councilwoman Brandi Matthews — will be recognized with the Humanitarian Award.
The Education Award will be presented to Angela R. Griffith, and Reverend David Elliott will receive the Religious Affairs Award.
The organization is also recognizing local businesses for their contributions to the community. Washington Shoe Repair Shop has been named Legacy Business of the Year, while ArtXecute has been selected as the Emerging Business of the Year.
Timothy Dortch will receive the Trailblazer Freedom Award.
Three young people will also be honored for their accomplishments and potential. Megan Chimombe has been named the recipient of the Female Freedom Fund Youth Achievement Award, while Christopher Adams will receive the Male Freedom Fund Youth Achievement Award. Nyasha Chimombe has been selected for the Youth Promise Award.
The Goldsboro Wayne Branch NAACP is inviting the community to congratulate this year’s honorees and celebrate the contributions they have made throughout Goldsboro and Wayne County.
The 2026 Freedom Fund Gala is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026.
Comments